rwards. We
want a written treaty, one copy to be given to us, so we shall know
what we sign for. Are you willing to give means to instruct children
as long as the sun shines and water runs, so that our children
will grow up ever increasing in knowledge?"

MR. LAIRD: "The Government will choose teachers according to the
religion of the band. If the band are pagans the Government will
appoint teachers who, if not acceptable, will be replaced by others.
About treaties lasting forever, I will just say that some Indians
have got to live so like the whites that they have sold their
lands and divided the money. But this only happens when the Indians
ask for it. Treaties last forever, as signed, unless the Indians
wish to make a change. I understand you all agree to the terms of
the Treaty. Am I right? If so, I will have the Treaty drawn up,
and to-morrow we will sign it. Speak, all those who do not agree!"

MOOSTOOS: "I agree."

KEENOOSHAYO: "My children, all who agree, stand up!"

The Reverend Father Lacombe then addressed the Indians in substance
as follows: He reminded them that he was an old friend, and came
amongst them seven years ago, and, being now old, he came again to
fulfil another duty, and to assist the Commission to make a treaty.
"Knowing you as I do, your manners, your customs and language, I
have been officially attached to the Commission as adviser. To-day
is a great day for you, a day of long remembrance, and your children
hereafter will learn from your lips the events of to-day. I consented
to come here because I thought it was a good thing for you to take
the Treaty. Were it not in your interest I would not take part
in it. I have been long familiar with the Government's methods
of making treaties with the Saulteaux of Manitoba, the Crees of
Saskatchewan, and the Blackfeet, Bloods and Piegans of the Plains,
and advised these tribes to accept the offers of the Government.
Therefore, to-day, I urge you to accept the words of the Big Chief
who comes here in the name of the Queen. I have known him for
many years, and, I can assure you, he is just and sincere in
all his statements, besides being vested with authority to deal
with you. Your forest and river life will not be changed by
the Treaty, and you will have your annuities, as well, year
by year, as long as the sun shines and the earth remains.
Therefore I finish my speaking by saying, Accept!"

The chiefs and counsellors stood up, and requested all